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Publication Date

2022-5

Document Type

Capstone

Study Type

ENV 312

Department

Environmental Science and Policy

Advisors

Efadul Huq

Abstract

Climate change is causing a steady increase in atmospheric temperature, causing more frequent and intense storms for vulnerable areas. As a result, floods will be higher and reach farther inland, increasing the risk of property damage and loss of life. In the event of increased amount and frequency of precipitation caused by climate change, Smith College and the City of Northampton may be facing a lack of capacity and/or infrastructure for flooding. Our goal is to define the current strengths and weaknesses of the flood infrastructure at Smith College and the City of Northampton. Our objective is to assess possible adjustments to the flood infrastructure from Smith College and the City of Northampton, including the levees, the floodwalls, and the dam to address the projected increase in flooding that may occur at Smith College and the City of Northampton. We also aim to provide an informative report on the projected flooding risk to Smith College and the City of Northampton caused by the Mill River and Paradise Pond. To achieve this goal, we conducted interviews, mapped the 100 and 500-year floodplains surrounding Paradise Pond, and compiled information on the flood infrastructure and streamflow data at Smith College and the City of Northampton. Through this process, we hope to influence Smith College to enhance flood mitigation and provide a foundation for future research. This project is intended to inform other universities and university towns dealing with climate-induced flood management.

Rights

© 2022; Dominique Kelly, Andria Polk, and Maya Morales

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